Purpose of Testing Hematocrit Levels
The synthesis or life cycle of red blood cells can be impacted by a variety of factors. A doctor may find it challenging to diagnose certain diseases as a result. A hematocrit test will be used by a physician to determine whether a patient’s red blood cell count has an impact on their health.
Hematocrit levels are typically assessed by doctors as part of a complete blood count (CBC).
A CBC is made up of several different tests, some of which may be:
- count of red blood cells
- reticulocytes count (Young red blood cells)
- hemoglobin levels analysis
- an examination of the dimensions and structure of red blood cells
- testing for white blood cells
- testing on platelets
Part of what a doctor will put into consideration are a person’s sex, race, and age. It is important to note that certain blood-related conditions, such as sickle-cell anemia, [1] have higher risks of affecting a particular demographic group.